Falls River Swing Bridge

Overview

Set high in lush coastal forest, the Falls River Swing Bridge is a classic Abel Tasman moment: a ~40 m suspension span sitting roughly 15–20 m above a jade-green river. It’s an all-fun, mildly wobbly crossing with big views up the valley and out toward the estuary.

Where It Is

You’ll hit the bridge on the all‑tide section between Torrent Bay and Bark Bay, on the Abel Tasman Coast Track. Most day walkers reach it as part of the Anchorage ↔ Bark Bay leg.

How To Do It (Popular Day Options)

• Anchorage → Bark Bay via the Torrent Bay estuary at low tide: about 3 hours and 8.4 km.
• Anchorage → Bark Bay via the high‑tide track: about 4 hours and 11.5 km.
• Torrent Bay → Bark Bay direct (crossing the bridge en route): roughly 7.8 km in 2–3 hours. Water taxis commonly drop at Anchorage or Torrent Bay and pick up at Bark Bay.

What You’ll See

From the deck you’ll look down on clear pools and often spot kayakers or a passing water taxi below. The surrounding bush is alive with native birdsong—tui, bellbird, fantails and more are increasingly common thanks to ongoing pest control. Keep an eye along the coast for shags and other seabirds; dolphins are occasionally seen near river mouths and bays.

Nearby Add‑Ons

Cleopatra’s Pool (a mossy natural waterslide) sits off the high‑tide route near Anchorage. After the bridge, a short detour leads to Sandfly Bay; further on you’ll reach Medlands Beach and Bark Bay’s hut/campsite. There’s also an optional side trip to Falls River Falls (about 3 hours return from this section).

Planning Essentials

There are no facilities at the bridge. Toilets, untreated water, and shelter are at DOC huts/campsites like Anchorage and Bark Bay (bookings required year‑round; boil water before drinking). Wasps and sandflies are present—bring repellent. Drones aren’t permitted without authorization. Check current track alerts before you go.

Best Time To Visit

Early morning or late afternoon delivers softer light, fewer walkers, and nicer photos. The bridge itself isn’t tide‑dependent, but if you’re using the Torrent Bay estuary route, time your walk for the 1–2 hours either side of low tide; otherwise take the high‑tide track.